Dubai: Sand, Glass, Concrete, and Steel

FROM A HUMBLE FISHING VILLAGE TO A GLOBAL METROPOLIS.

Introduction

Dubai, now a bustling global metropolis, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the last century. From its humble beginnings as a fishing village and trading port, the city has evolved into one of the most dynamic urban centers in the world. This study outlines the spatial organization of Dubai and the key factors that have driven its rapid urban development, particularly since the discovery of oil and the influx of foreign labor. By tracing the city’s origins, historic core, and development patterns, I will analyze how economic forces, political decisions, and urban planning have shaped Dubai’s current form.


Dubai’s original settlements, featuring the creek, Deira to left, Al Shindagah below, and Bur Dubai above.
Dubai’s original settlements, featuring the creek, Deira to left, Al Shindagah below, and Bur Dubai above.

First Phase (1900-1955)

Low Urbanization Period: Dubai’s original settlements, featuring the creek, Deira to left, Al Shindagah below, and Bur Dubai above.

John Harris's First Dubai Master Plan 1960

Second Phase (1955-1970)

Compact Urban Development Period: John Harris's First Dubai Master Plan 1960.

Abu Dhabi Road 1979 (now Sheikh Zayed Road)

Third Phase (1970-1990)

Planning for Suburban Growth Period: Abu Dhabi Road 1979 (now Sheikh Zayed Road)

Sheikh Zayed Road post urbanization shows the scale and progression of development

Fourth phase (1990-Nowadays)

Urban Globalization Period: Sheikh Zayed Road post urbanization shows the scale and progression of development.


Founding and Early Development

Dubai's early development was characterized by its strategic location on the Arabian Gulf, which made it a key stopover on trade routes between Europe, Africa, and Asia. The city’s initial spatial organization reflected its economic emphasis on fishing, pearl diving, and maritime trade.

The historic core of Dubai, located in the Deira district, featured traditional palm-frond houses and simple infrastructure. It wasn't until the discovery of oil in the 1960s that Dubai’s urban landscape began to change significantly. The oil revenues allowed for massive urban expansion, infrastructural developments, and population growth, which further bolstered Dubai’s position as a regional and global trade hub (Dillon and Dillon, 2007).


The Boom: Population and Urban Growth

Fayez Elessawy (2017) documents, Dubai's population skyrocketed from 183,000 in 1975 to over 2 million by 2015, a staggering growth of 1000% in just four decades. This rapid population increase was driven primarily by the influx of immigrant labor, which now makes up 91% of the population. The city’s urban growth followed a similar trajectory, expanding from 54 square kilometers in 1975 to 977 square kilometers by 2015.

The development of infrastructure, including roads, ports, and residential areas, allowed Dubai to transform into a global financial and business hub. Skyscrapers, artificial islands, and luxury developments now dominate the city’s skyline, reflecting its role as a center for international commerce and tourism (Elessawy, 2017).

The Embedded Video will take you through a timelapse journey of Dubai's urban development.


Present-Day Spatial Organization

Today, Dubai’s spatial organization reflects its status as a global city with distinct economic zones and residential areas catering to its diverse population. Key landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina symbolize its economic might and global appeal. The Mall of the World, a planned air-conditioned city, exemplifies Dubai’s ambition to remain at the forefront of urban innovation. This project, which will cover 4.5 million square meters, aims to attract over 180 million visitors per year, further cementing Dubai’s role as a major cultural, economic, and tourism hub (Dubai Holding, 2023). As Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktom announced, “This project complements our plans to transform Dubai into a cultural, tourist, and economic hub for the two billion people living in the region around us; and we are determined to achieve our vision,” (Dubai Holding, 2023).

Future Development Plans with Cutting Edge Sustainability Features and Air-conditioned Streets (Dubai Holding, 2023)


Role of Urban Planning and Visionary Leadership

Another key factor in Dubai’s urban development has been the city’s proactive urban planning and visionary leadership. The establishment of the Dubai Municipality in 1957 marked a turning point in the city's growth, leading to the development of master plans that laid the foundation for future expansion. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, has played a crucial role in shaping the city’s development strategy, emphasizing diversification, tourism, and innovation. His vision for Dubai as a global hub has driven major projects like the Dubai Cultural District, which will house venues modeled after London’s West End and New York’s Broadway (Dubai Holding, 2023).

The city’s spatial organization is driven by strategic urban planning projects focused on tourism, real estate, and commerce. For example, large developments like Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina are structured to attract tourists, investors, and expatriates. These areas offer a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, tightly packed within zones optimized for economic activity. One of the most striking examples of Dubai’s futuristic urban planning is the Museum of the Future. This innovative architectural marvel showcases the city’s commitment to sustainable development.

Burj Khalifa/Downtown area, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina Descriptions

The Museum of the Future’s design incorporates novel landscaping solutions that highlight Dubai’s focus on environmentally conscious building. Its "green hill," a vegetated mound covering the podium structure, utilizes advanced geosynthetic systems for soil retention and vegetation support on steep slopes. To address the complex structural requirements, three types of geosynthetic solutions were employed: reinforced soil, geocells for moderate slopes, and erosion control mats for gentle slopes (Jayakrishnan, Mottadelli & González, 2024). This project underscores the city’s integration of sustainability with cutting-edge architectural practices.

Museum of the Future,Taken in Dubai with phone, 2021, August 26, Lyonerov

Museum of the Future,Taken in Dubai with phone, 2021, August 26, Lyonerov

The Role of Geosynthetics in Urban Sustainability

The Museum of the Future's innovative use of geosynthetics in landscaping presents a model for sustainable architecture in Dubai. The design utilizes minimal soil layers, supported by geosynthetic systems that stabilize the vegetation despite the harsh climate and limited space. The project’s green hill, which includes over a hundred species of trees and plants, reduces solar gain and the urban heat island effect by incorporating a green roof, further advancing Dubai’s sustainability goals (Jayakrishnan, Mottadelli & González, 2024). Additionally, the project’s smart irrigation system conserves water through geosynthetic drainage systems that deliver water directly to plant roots, conserving up to 25% of irrigation water. This approach not only enhances the city's green spaces but also aligns with Dubai’s larger sustainability ambitions (Jayakrishnan, Mottadelli & González, 2024).

CNBC's Dan Murphy talks to Shaun Killa, the architect of Dubai's Museum of the Future, to find out why the building is so unique and what challenges he faced with its construction.


The Influence of Foreign Labor and Investment

One of the most significant factors underlying Dubai’s urban growth has been its reliance on foreign labor and investment. As Michael and Laura Dillon (2007) note in their research on Dubai's strategy, the city has capitalized on its business-friendly policies and strategic location to attract foreign investors. This influx of capital has fueled large-scale development projects, from luxury real estate to world-class infrastructure. Additionally, Dubai’s liberal visa policies have made it a magnet for skilled professionals and the growing incorporation of “temporary migrant labor from across the globe” (Buckley 2014), contributing to its rapid population growth (Dillon and Dillon, 2007).


The Impact of FDI Biases on Spatial Inclusion and Exclusion in Dubai’s Built Environment

Dubai’s transformation into a global hub of economic opportunity has made it a magnet for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), leading to rapid urbanization and the development of smart city projects. However, while FDI plays a crucial role in the city's growth, the biases inherent in investment decisions also create spatial divisions that affect the social fabric and inclusivity of Dubai. By examining Dubai’s smart city projects and related FDI trends, this paper investigates the complex relationship between economic opportunity and spatial exclusivity, emphasizing how FDI biases reinforce economic and social divides within the city’s built environment.

The Role of Foreign Direct Investment in Dubai’s Urban Development

Since the early 2000s, Dubai has attracted substantial FDI, positioning itself as a competitive financial hub within the Middle East. Policies that ease regulatory requirements, coupled with tax-free zones and sophisticated infrastructure, have made Dubai an appealing location for foreign investors. According to Joghee, Alzoubi, and Dubey (2020), Dubai's real estate and smart city projects have particularly benefited from FDI, with investors seeking high-return opportunities in the expanding business and residential sectors (Joghee et al., 2020). Initiatives like the Dubai Creek Harbor and Blue Waters Island demonstrate Dubai’s commitment to creating an environment that fosters capital inflow and accommodates corporate and luxury interests (Joghee et al., 2020).

However, Dubai’s emphasis on high-value investments inherently biases development toward projects that serve affluent individuals and corporate entities, thereby limiting access to resources and infrastructure for lower-income residents. This focus on economically profitable areas has fostered a built environment that prioritizes commercial and luxury spaces over inclusive public spaces, restricting opportunities for socio-economic integration (Joghee et al., 2020).

1

Burj Khalifa

High-rise buildings, as exemplified by Burj Khalifa, represent engineering advancements in urban design, necessitating complex solutions to ensure structural stability under extreme conditions. From initial architectural designs to considerations of wind and seismic activity, each element in high-rise construction contributes to the overall resilience and safety of these structures.

2

Atlantis Resort and Theme Park

Nestled between the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf and majestic Dubai skyline, Atlantis, The Palm is an iconic destination resort that will take you a world away. Being more than just a Dubai beach hotel, the world-renowned resort is a premiere dining destination offering award-winning & celebrity chef restaurants and is home to the world’s largest waterpark at Aquaventure World, where guests and thrillseekers alike can take on everything it has to offer.

3

Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in Dubai. This waterfront community boasts skyscrapers, hotels and luxury apartments, a range of restaurants, entertainment facilities, cruise tours and shopping avenues. At a prime location in the city, Dubai Marina is well-connected via major road routes and metro links. The area offers all the conveniences at a hand’s length including grocery stores, medical facilities and retail centres.

FDI Biases in Smart City Projects: Economic Growth versus Social Inclusion

Smart city projects are at the heart of Dubai’s urban expansion and exemplify FDI biases that favor high-end investments. Projects such as Business Bay and Dubai Marina cater primarily to high-income residents and multinational corporations, promoting an image of Dubai as a luxury destination (Joghee et al., 2020). While these smart cities incorporate advanced infrastructure, connectivity, and state-of-the-art amenities, their economic exclusivity aligns with the FDI driven agenda to attract a wealthy clientele, often at the expense of inclusivity (Joghee et al., 2020).

Joghee et al. (2020) argue that FDI decision-making processes prioritize return on investment (ROI) and asset security, leading to a concentration of resources in areas that appeal to elite populations. Consequently, smart city projects perpetuate spatial exclusion by setting physical and economic barriers between wealthy and lower-income residents (Joghee et al., 2020). While affluent districts benefit from high-quality infrastructure, gated communities, and recreational spaces, marginalized groups find themselves excluded from these modern amenities and forced into peripheral zones with limited access to essential resources (Joghee et al., 2020).


Map of Population Concentration in Dubai (Left) in Comparison to the Built Environment/Man-Made Area (Right) to Visualize Urban Sprawl and Urban Density.


Spatial Exclusion Through Gated Communities and High-Value Developments

Dubai’s rapid growth has led to a proliferation of gated communities and exclusive residential areas, which reinforce socio-economic divides by creating enclaves for the wealthy. Luxury developments in areas like Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah, backed by FDI, offer premium services and security, appealing to affluent expatriates and local elites (Joghee et al., 2020). These spaces symbolize economic success but contribute to spatial exclusion by limiting physical accessibility for middle- and lower-income residents (Joghee et al., 2020).

Gated communities exemplify the notion of “fortress urbanism,” where urban spaces are selectively accessible and prioritize private over public interests (Joghee et al., 2020). Such exclusivity also influences spatial inclusion as these communities restrict entry based on socioeconomic status, heightening the sense of division within the city. Thus, while high-value developments attract foreign capital and contribute to Dubai’s economic growth, they simultaneously reinforce social stratification and spatial marginalization of lower-income groups (Joghee et al., 2020).


Addressing Spatial Inequities: Toward Inclusive Development Policies

For Dubai to become an inclusive city, urban development policies must balance economic growth with social equity, ensuring that FDI benefits are distributed across different socioeconomic groups. Policymakers should consider implementing regulations that encourage affordable housing and require smart city projects to incorporate inclusive public spaces and services accessible to all residents (Joghee et al., 2020).

Furthermore, the development of mixeduse neighborhoods that blend residential, commercial, and recreational spaces could help bridge social divides by fostering integration within the urban fabric (Joghee et al., 2020). Adjusting FDI policies to prioritize sustainable and inclusive development will require a shift in focus from purely profit-driven motives to considerations of social equity.

For example, offering tax incentives for developers who invest in affordable housing or supporting mixed-income developments within prime areas could counterbalance the spatial exclusion fueled by current investment trends (Joghee et al., 2020). Moreover, by fostering public-private partnerships aimed at affordable infrastructure projects, Dubai can create a more inclusive urban landscape that reflects its diverse population and supports social cohesion (Joghee et al., 2020).

Dubai’s built environment, heavily influenced by FDI-driven biases, presents both opportunities and challenges for spatial inclusion. While FDI has fueled the city’s transformation into a global economic hub, the resulting investment biases have reinforced socio-economic divides, manifesting in spatial exclusion and limited access to key urban resources for lower-income residents (Joghee et al., 2020). Addressing these divides requires a recalibration of urban policies to foster inclusivity, with a focus on affordable housing and accessible public spaces. By adopting development practices that consider the needs of diverse socio-economic groups, Dubai can progress toward a more equitable urban environment that sustains both economic growth and social inclusivity (Joghee et al., 2020).

The map to the left depicts Dubai's urban sprawl, which helps understand society's segregation, wealth disparity, and placement of skyscrapers.


Housing Affordability Crisis: Impact of FDI on Real Estate Prices

FDI inflows into Dubai’s real estate sector have led to soaring property values, making affordable housing increasingly scarce. As investors continue to back luxury projects, the demand for prime real estate drives up property prices across the city. This upward pressure on prices, as noted by Elessawy (2021) and supported by Joghee et al. (2020), reduces housing affordability, impacting middle- and lower-income residents. Rising costs limit access to housing near economic hubs, forcing lower-income residents to live on the periphery, where resources and infrastructure are less developed (Joghee et al., 2020).

This exclusion from central areas creates a spatial divide that compounds social inequities, as affordable housing options become increasingly scarce in well-serviced parts of the city (Joghee et al., 2020). The disparity in housing affordability challenges the inclusivity of Dubai’s urban landscape, as those with lower purchasing power are increasingly marginalized from economic and social opportunities in core areas (Joghee et al., 2020). The map to the left shows real estate prices in Palm Jumeirah and a few other key residential regions to compare the value and affordability.

Stability and Resilience of High-Rise Buildings: The Case of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa

High-rise buildings have become defining features of modern cities, reflecting economic growth and technological advancement. As one of the tallest buildings in the world, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa exemplifies the structural and engineering challenges faced by such skyscrapers, especially in dealing with environmental forces like wind and earthquakes.

High-rise buildings emerged in the late 19th century as a solution to urban space limitations, initially taking shape in the United States. Over the 20th century, skyscrapers became symbols of economic power, with countries increasingly competing to construct iconic high-rise structures (Bakarman, Setiawan, & Prawito, 2023).

As taller buildings face unique stability challenges, particularly in high-wind and earthquake-prone areas, their design requires careful consideration of external forces, including lateral loads and structural integrity under shifting environmental conditions. In response to these risks, engineering advances now focus on enhancing the stability of tall buildings by using cross walls and rigid frames to strengthen structural envelopes and maintain safety, even during extreme weather events (Bakarman et al., 2023).

High-rise buildings encounter both vertical and lateral loads. Vertical loads, which include the weight of the building and its occupants, generally pose fewer design challenges compared to lateral forces. Wind and seismic loads, however, create substantial tensile stresses that can induce vibrations, sway, and lateral tilts, requiring specially designed shear walls to control lateral movements (Bakarman et al., 2023). These structural elements help absorb seismic activity and reduce potential structural damage, making them integral to high-rise safety and stability under lateral forces (Bakarman et al., 2023).

The slider map to the left juxtaposes Dubai's main circulatory corridors for ground and rail transport with the concentration of highrise development. This represents the urban density of Dubai's main circulatory corridor and how amenities and development are geared towards enhancing the skyline whilst providing convenience to the city's ever-growing population.



Conclusion

Dubai’s urban growth is a testament to the city's ability to leverage its natural resources, strategic location, and visionary leadership. From its beginnings as a small fishing village to its current status as a global metropolis, the city’s spatial organization reflects its economic priorities and ambition. As the city continues to evolve, projects like the Mall of the World and the Dubai Cultural District will play a critical role in shaping its future. According to Wyly, “Eight major ‘eras’ define urban geography. The four dominant ones are Analytical urban geography (1960s), GIS, planning, and policy (1970), Structuralist political economy (1973), and Poststructuralist, postmodern urbanism (1990).” This reinforces the idea that Dubai followed global trends of development to become the popular destination it is today.

Dubai’s development aligns with Graeber and Wengrow’s observation that urban centers are shaped not only by material conditions but also by shared imaginaries of what cities can represent. While FDI has fueled Dubai’s transformation into a global economic hub, this reliance has also created investment biases that exacerbate socio-economic divides, resulting in spatial exclusion and limited access to key urban resources for lower-income residents (Joghee et al., 2020). Addressing these divides necessitates urban policies that integrate inclusivity, prioritizing affordable housing and accessible public spaces. By adopting practices that meet the needs of diverse socio-economic groups, Dubai can advance toward a more equitable urban environment, consistent with Graeber and Wengrow’s call for alternative, egalitarian trajectories in city development.

Moreover, as exemplified by the Burj Khalifa, Dubai’s high-rise buildings represent its innovative engineering and modern urban aspirations. These structures require advanced technical solutions to ensure resilience under extreme environmental conditions (Bakarman et al., 2023). This vertical expansion not only demonstrates economic strength but also reflects the imaginative possibilities described by Graeber and Wengrow, who argue that cities are expressions of collective creativity and governance.

In reimagining its future, Dubai must balance its ambitious projects with policies that foster inclusivity and resilience. By aligning its development with both technical innovation and the principles of social equity, the city can sustain its global prominence while addressing the challenges of spatial inclusion and exclusion.


Works Cited

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Elessawy, Fayez M. "The Boom: Population and Urban Growth of Dubai City." Horizons in Humanities and Social Sciences 2, no. 2 (2017).

Dubai Holding. "Dubai Will Be Home to the World’s First Air-Conditioned City." Property News. Accessed October 10, 2024, Published April 19 2022. https://www.propertynews.ae/uae/dubai-will-be-home-to-the- worlds-first-air-conditioned-city/.

The New York Times. "Dubai Climate Summit 2023." December 9, 2023. Accessed October 10, 2024. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/09/world/middleeast/dubai-climate-summit.html.

CNBC International News. 2022. “Tour Dubai’s Museum of the Future With Its Architect.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bgu_oYaGQJg.

Knight Frank MENA. 2018. “Dubai Evolution From 1960 to 2021 Time-lapse.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPd5AmTEkdk.

Wyly, Elvyn. 2011. A Short Historiography of Urban Geography.

Jayakrishnan, P.V., L. Mottadelli, and M.H. González. “Novel Landscaping Applications of Geosynthetics in the ‘Museum of the Future’ Project in Dubai.” Geosynthetics: Leading the Way to a Resilient Planet, edited by Biondi et al., Maccaferri Middle East LLC, 2024.

Joghee, S, Alzoubi, H M and Dubey, A R (2020) Decisions Effectiveness Of FDI Investment Biases At Real Estate Industry: Empirical Evidence From Dubai Smart City Projects. International Journal of Scientific & Technology Research, 9 (3). pp. 3499-3503. ISSN 2277-8616

Omar Bakarman, M. A., Setiawan, M. I., & Prawito, A. (2023). Study of the Stability in the High Building: Case Study in Burj Dubai, UAE. Neutron, 22(2), 79-87.

Buckley, Michelle. 2014. “On the Work of Urbanization: Migration, Construction Labor, and the Commodity Moment.” Annals of the Association of American Geographers 104 (2): 338–47.

Graeber, David, and David Wengrow. "The Dawn of Everything: A New History of Humanity." Toronto: Penguin Random House Canada Limited, 2021.

Museum of the Future,Taken in Dubai with phone, 2021, August 26, Lyonerov